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		<title>Africa Tamed Travel Blog</title>
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		<description><![CDATA[Copyright Claire Dinnie www.africatamed.co.za<script type="text/javascript">
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		<copyright>Copyright 2010, Claire Dinnie</copyright>
		<managingEditor>Claire Dinnie</managingEditor>
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			<title>Welcome to Claire&#039;s travel blog!</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100702-155050</link>
			<description><![CDATA[This informative travel blog offers fantastic travel ideas and tips on what best to see and experience while on vacation in Southern Africa. First hand travel experience to each destination is reported back in each blog entry. <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Contact_Details.php#ENQUIRY" target="_blank" >Contact Africa Tamed</a>  should you wish to experience one of these superb destinations. We will design and coordinate a memorable African adventure to suit you and your needs.<br /><br />Africa Tamed is a successful tour operator based in Cape Town, South Africa, offering personalised luxury travel packages throughout South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique. <br /><br />To read more about Africa Tamed, go to our  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Home Page</a> .<br /><br /> <img src="images/Claire.jpg" width="500" height="334" border="0" alt="" /> ]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100702-155050</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:50:50 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>Experiencing the Townships in South Africa</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100702-151215</link>
			<description><![CDATA[At the turn of the 20th century racial segregation became prominent in South Africa and the history of community removals and marginalisation had begun. In 1966 an apartheid government declared valuable urban areas “whites only” areas and all people of colour were forcibly removed from their homes to the barren low-lying outer areas of the cities, their homes bulldozed to the ground. <br />  <br />The low-lying outer areas are now known as the townships and in Cape Town particularly, the Cape Flats. A very popular activity for international tourists to South Africa is a guided township tour. The desire to learn how the different communities live, to meet the people and to learn of South Africa’s history is of great interest to them. <br /><br /><img src="images/wooden_and_tin_shack_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />As a resident Capetonian from the “other side” of town, I decided it was time I ventured out of the comforts of my home environment into the townships of the Cape Flats. You must understand that this is not a common thing for a white South African to do. The perception of the townships is that they are dangerous, areas where violent crime takes place and where white faces are not welcome. Well, for the most part, this is a huge misperception. <br /><br /><img src="images/Tuck_Shop_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.daytours.co.za/" target="_blank" >African Eagle Day Tours </a>  escorted me on a half-day guided tour, which incorporated a visit to the District Six Museum, Langa and Khayelitsha. The District Six Museum, established in December 1994 (when Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa), works with the memories of the communities that used to live in District 6 and with the history of forced removals more generally. This allows a deeper understanding of the people and of the townships you visit on the tour. Langa and Khayelitsha are two of the older townships on the Cape Flats.<br /><br />Our tour guide, Songs, a wonderful quiet natured Xhosa gentleman who lives in the Langa Township, accompanied us. Songezo, his full name, in Xhosa means late addition, being the last child of his family. Songs introduced us to another side of Cape Town. <br /><br /><img src="images/Smiley_African_girl_493k.JPG" width="370" height="454" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />An eye-opening stroll through the littered streets laced with the smell of barbequed sheep’s head, had me captivated (the insides a delicacy enjoyed by the locals). Small children decently dressed playing a cheerful, lively game of soccer; colourful, neatly assembled corrugated iron shacks with communal ablution facilities and water points and a mass of loose electrical wires running between homes and electrical points, any electrician’s nightmare! Most of all, what I noticed was the friendliness and welcoming attitude of the people. We attracted many young children who posed eagerly for photographs wanting in return to see themselves in the digital photo. During South Africa’s progression to democracy, the communities have learned to welcome tourists as they realise that tourism is a good form of income for the communities as a whole. African Eagle Day Tours, merged with Grassroute Tours, is a Black Economic Empowerment company that offers informative township tours and cultural experiences in a non-invasive sustainable way, bringing benefits to the communities it visits.<br /><br /><img src="images/Colourful_smiley_kids_479k.JPG" width="330" height="495" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />Almost all of the communities of the Cape Flats remain, to one degree or another, poverty stricken. A wide range of community empowerment organisations work non-violently to combat poverty, crime and health problems and the role of civil society in many parts of the area is relatively strong.<br /><br />Wonderfully creative business developments can be found the in townships.  <a href="http://www.vickysbedandbreakfast.com/" target="_blank" >Vicky’s B&amp;B</a>  in Khayelitsha, included on the itinerary for the township tour, is a homely colourful engaging overnight stop for travellers from all over the world. This offers the opportunity to live in the townships and really feel the vibe!  <br /><br />Mzoli’s Place in Gugulethu is another great example of a creative business blossoming out the townships. Mzoli’s is actually a butchery but has been expanded to include a pub next door where one can enjoy a couple of cold ones with the locals while feasting on some deliciously braaied (barbequed) meat.  Its festive, its lively, its likely to have you partying until late! I was delighted to experience Mzoli’s on the evening that Bafana Bafana played France in the FIFA World Cup Soccer. What a magnificent vibe there was! What cameraderie and passion for South Africa! A truly memorable experience!<br /><br />Visiting the townships is a wonderful eye opening experience allowing you to more fully and tangibly grasp South Africa and her people. I happily recommend it! <br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed</a> <br />Your southern Africa Travel Specialists!<br /><br />Check out our other fun travel articles on our  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/blog" target="_blank" >Travel Blog.</a> ]]></description>
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			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:12:15 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>Natal Battlefields at Three Tree Hill Lodge</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100519-171403</link>
			<description><![CDATA[During the attempted siege of Ladysmith, the battle of Spioenkop between Anglo and Boer continued into the dark of night on the 23 Jan 1900. Gunfire as loud as thunder, bloodshed spread rampantly and the loud groaning of injured soldiers made the air heavy with fear. Confusion reigned amongst the Anglo soldiers as their team leaders fought against each other for leadership, later retreating to safer grounds in the valley on Three Tree Hill…  <br /><br /><img src="images/Three_Tree_Hill_-_Omri_on_Spioenkop_411k.JPG" width="500" height="280" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Three Tree Hill Lodge Battlefields tour<br /><br />As we sat there on the top of Spieonkop some 110 years after the battle, Omri, our specialist battlefields guide, had us hanging on every word as the story unfolded. What a mess! What a disaster of a battle! Even for someone that always hated history at school, I was dumbfounded at this story. And a story is what it is. The battlefields of Natal are not only for historians, the British or the Boers. If its told in a story like Omri unfolded for us, it’s a journey that anyone can enjoy. <br /><br /><img src="images/Three_Tree_Hill_Lodge_490k.JPG" width="500" height="334" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Three Tree Hill Lodge<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.threetreehill.co.za/" target="_blank" >Three Tree Hill Lodge</a>  offers a wonderful base from which to explore the Anglo-Boer battlefields of Spioenkop and Colenso. Passionately run by owners Simon and Cheryl Blackburn, the lodge exudes a homely, comfortable atmosphere. The spacious dark green corrugated iron chalets give off a British colonial feel from something out the old gold mining days. Beautifully decorated inside with warm colours, the finest linen and lovely colonial furniture, the chalets show the attention to detail. A private wooden deck extends from each chalet overlooking a spectacular view of the Spioenkop Nature Reserve and Spioenkop itself. The peace and silence is breathtaking.<br /><br /><img src="images/Three_Tree_Hill_bedroom_487k.JPG" width="500" height="332" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Three Tree Hill Lodge suite<br /><br />Another great attraction that this area offers is the spectacular, dramatic Drakensberg Mountain range. Within an hour’s drive from Three Tree Hill Lodge is the uKhahlamba National Park (formerly the Royal Natal National Park), Cathedral Peak and the Champagne Valley, all of these offering superb hiking trails and breathtaking views. Take a delicious pack-lunch lovingly prepared for you by the chef at Three Tree Hill and enjoy a days hike.<br /><br /><img src="images/Drakensberg_-_cathedral_peak_550.JPG" width="500" height="375" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Drakensberg Mountain range<br /><br />The cuisine at Three Tree Hill Lodge is simple but wonderfully delicious and wholesome and is served at a large communal wooden table in the dining room or on the patio, allowing you to mix with fellow travellers and chat about the days activities. While staying at Three Tree Hill all meals are included. They also have a large selection of excellent South African wines, which can be enjoyed over dinner.<br /><br /><img src="images/Three_Tree_Hill_-_verandah_dinner_487k.JPG" width="500" height="332" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Three Tree Hill Lodge - dinner on verandah<br /><br />In my opinion, Three Tree Hill Lodge is well worth a stay offering great value for money, a minimum of 2 nights is recommended and the drive up from Durban is a mere 2hrs 30min.<br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed</a> <br />Your southern Africa Travel Specialists!<br />Allow us to coordinate your next dream holiday.  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Contact_Details.php#ENQUIRY" target="_blank" >Contact us now</a> . <br /><br />To read other fun travel articles go to  <a href="http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Travel Blog</a> ]]></description>
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			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010 15:14:03 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>A Day in the Life on an Overland Safari</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100429-121902</link>
			<description><![CDATA[At the crack of dawn you are woken by a knock on your tent and a cheerful “good morning happy campers” from your overland guide as she goes about preparing breakfast on the open wood fire in the middle of your camp. Memories flood back to you as you become aware of your surroundings. The previous afternoon the custom-built overland truck carrying all camping necessities, pulled up at a wild camp at the base of the beautiful Spitzkoppe, a granite outcrop rising some 1700m above the surrounding gravel plains of central west Namibia.   The granite rock became a playground as you explored its heights and crevices. As the sun dropped to the horizon, the dust in the air over the gravel plains created a magical African sunset, the suns rays reflected burnt orange off Spitzkoppes granite rock. A magical evening was spent under the clear starry sky, Barking Geckos called while you sat around a glowing campfire sipping a Windhoek lager with your fellow campers and guide.<br /><br /><img src="images/Nomad_truck_-_spitzkoppe_550k.JPG" width="500" height="375" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Overland campsite at Spitzkoppe<br /><br />After a tasty breakfast of French toast, hot tea and cereal prepared by your guide, with communal effort, camp is packed up and you board the overland truck to head off to the next exciting destination – Etosha National Park. Many hours are spent travelling on board the overland truck, its kind of part of the overlanding experience. Rough gravel roads, dust, the rattle and shake of the truck, African tunes of “The Best of Johnny Clegg” playing in the background, a competitive card game enjoyed by your fellow travellers, as you watch the African savannah pass by. As you enter Etosha National Park in northern Namibia, the pace slows right down and everyone grabs a window seat to start the game spotting in this popular game reserve. Here your guides experience and knowledge of wildlife is brought to light. If she is worth her salt, she will be interpreting the signs of the bush to you, not only identifying the animal, bird, tree, rock, insect, snake species but giving you some background on their habits and habitats. Being a Field Guide means being able to interpret the African bush and all overland guides are registered field guides.<br /><br /><img src="images/Nomad_truck_550k.JPG" width="500" height="375" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Overland Truck<br /><br />Overland Safaris are not for everyone and a clear understand should be obtained before heading out on one. They are adventurous, active and continuously on the move. It’s a wonderful way to experience the major highlights of a few countries. Large distances are covered and you will travel with a relatively large group of people. You will get dirty, some camps don’t have showers and you will need to be prepared to rough it. The tour does not always run to schedule, sometimes a flooding river will stop you in your tracks or your guide will have to test the trucks 4x4 abilities and sometimes get stuck, which then requires your assistance to push. The guides have a great ability to create excellent teamwork within the group and most of the time these safaris are excellent fun!<br /><br /><img src="images/Nomad_truck_campsite_550k.JPG" width="500" height="375" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Overland campsite<br /><br />Southern and East Africa offer a diverse range of exciting overland safaris aimed at the budget traveller. These range from 7 to 56 days long and can traverse multiple countries.  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Contact_Details.php#ENQUIRY" target="_blank" >Contact us</a>  for more information.<br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed</a> <br />Your southern Africa Travel Specialists!<br />Allow us to coordinate your African Overland Safari.  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Contact_Details.php#ENQUIRY" target="_blank" >Contact us now</a> .<br /><br /><br />To read other fun travel articles go to  <a href="http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Travel Blog</a> <br />]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100429-121902</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:19:02 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>The Sanbona Experience</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100313-100850</link>
			<description><![CDATA[I awoke startled by an unfamiliar ring of a telephone and scrambled to find the phone in my dark unfamiliar room. Shaken back to reality from a deep sleep, my memory returned to me slowly as I realised where I was. Our game ranger, Richard, sounding bright eyed and bushy tailed, was starting our day with a wake up call at 05h30. A good strong cup of filter coffee had me right as rain and we were on board the game drive vehicle by 06h00 ready to search for some exciting game species. <br />  <br /><img src="images/Richard,_Simon_and_Monique_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /><br />Richard, Simon, Monique and our game drive vehicle<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.sanbona.com/properties/default.asp" target="_blank" >Sanbona Wildlife Reserve </a>  is a very special place for those searching for a remote luxury wilderness experience. Spectacular scenery has one in awe of nature’s beauty. The reserve offers a huge 54 000 hectares of rugged landscape, fascinating geology, unusual vegetation and brilliant, diverse game viewing! It is the closest authentic Big 5 safari experience to Cape Town being approx 3hrs30min drive away. The diversity of game is excellent and I was fortunate to see a large selection during my 2 nights stay. To diverge a little, I shared the game drive vehicle with 2 other clients staying at Sanbona’s Gondwana Lodge. Monique and Simon were a young couple full of fun and laughter who worked on board a cruise liner and were here taking a break from their crazy lives. We experienced a wonderful sighting of a large breeding herd of elephants, we spotted the tawny and rare white lions, we experienced tracking down a cheetah on foot and found her with her 2 young cubs, and we spotted black rhino a number of times. These and many other species kept us enthralled. <br /><br /><img src="images/Elies_walking_into_the_distance_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Sanbona elephants at sunset<br /><br />With many years of game ranging experience, Richard showed great passion and enthusiasm towards nature and we were delighted to be the recipients of his excellent knowledge and expertise. I’ve always strongly believed that it’s imperative for a game lodge to have good knowledgeable game rangers because as clients you spend a lot of your valuable holiday time with them. They can make or break your experience. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, as do the other Mantis Collection properties, understands this.<br /><br /><img src="images/white_lions_with_gamedrive_vehicles_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /> <br />White lions with game drive vehicles<br /><br />Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers a choice of only 3 lodges within this 54 000 hectares, limiting the number of game drive vehicles traversing the reserve and therefore adding to that remote exclusivity it offers. All the lodges in my opinion are wonderful and all offer a completely different experience. Tilney Manor, with only 6 suites, offers privacy and tranquillity with a wonderfully welcoming staff complement seeing to your every need. The huge and beautifully appointed suites offer space and complete luxury and the manor house a touch of history supporting old photographs of the original farm owners. Tilney Manor is the oldest of Sanbona’s lodges with Dwyka Tented Camp and Gondwana Lodge being relatively new additions.<br /><br /><img src="images/Sanbona_vegetation_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Sanbona vegetation<br /><br />Gondwana Lodge is the child friendly lodge with 12 suites cleverly appointed to suit families travelling together. It offers a “kids on safari” program allowing the adults of bit of time to relax, unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The kids on safari program offers a great selection of kids entertainment including a games rooms, an outside play area and documentary DVD’s,<br /><br />Dwyka Tented Camp is also very luxurious, situated at the base of a fascinating rock cliff where majestic Black Eagles (Verreaux Eagle) nest. Each of their tents is a separate unit with its own private balcony and plunge pool offering complete privacy. Dwyka Tented Camp offers an atmosphere of pioneering adventure and therefore seems to attract guests that appeal to the adventure. Each of the camps is surrounded by an electric fence making it safe to walk around the lodges at any time of the day without an armed escort.<br /><br /><img src="images/Sunrise_drive_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Sunrise drive<br /><br />Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers complimentary transfers to the lodges from the main gate. The drive is approximately 45min to 1 hour and is on a dirt road. The road is very accessible by car, though it can be a bit corrugated and possibly a little too rough for low-lying sports cars. I would recommend the transfer as it adds to the all round hospitable service one gets from Sanbona. This also prevents you from taking the wrong turn and getting yourself lost in 54000 hectares of rough wilderness! <br /><br />All in all Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers a fabulous experience, one I would gladly recommend.<br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed</a> <br />Sanbona is a wonderful addition to a holiday itinerary with  <a href="http://africatamed.co.za/blog/comments.php?y=09&amp;m=04&amp;entry=entry090401-174534" target="_blank" >Cape Town </a>  and the  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/blog/comments.php?y=07&amp;m=05&amp;entry=entry070520-110740" target="_blank" >Garden Route </a>  or Cape Town and the whales at  <a href="http://africatamed.co.za/blog/comments.php?y=07&amp;m=07&amp;entry=entry070731-160421" target="_blank" >Hermanus</a> .<br /><br />Allow us to coordinate your dream African Safari.  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Contact_Details.php#ENQUIRY" target="_blank" >Contact us now</a> .<br /><br />To read other fun travel articles go to  <a href="http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Travel Blog</a> ]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100313-100850</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Mar 2010 09:08:50 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>A Journey into South Africa&#039;s Apartheid Era</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100216-101058</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Sikhululekile, the new luxurious Robben Island ferry, cruised across Table Bay at a strong 25knot pace with a full load of 285 passengers. This was the start of our 3hr30min journey into South Africa’s bumpy apartheid history. Standing on the outer deck, the strong wind playing havoc with my long hair while Sikhululekile bounded powerfully over the huge swell, I was being entertained by a school of dolphins playfully following alongside the motor yacht.   Within 30min we had arrived at the island only 12km from the Cape Town harbour, the potent stench of the seal colony at the entrance to the harbour maliciously reawakened my senses, completely knocking me off guard. Thankfully it was short lived and I could regain my composure as the smell dissipated when we disembarked. <br /><br /><img src="images/Sikhululekile_docked_at_robben_island_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" />    <br />Sikhululekile docked at Robben Island<br /><br />The island itself is relatively small at only 570 hectares and was used predominantly as a maximum-security prison for both political prisoners and convicts. In the 19th century it was used as a leper colony. Back in 1892, it was believed that leprosy was contagious and those with leprosy were banished to the island. Today one can see the graveyard of the remaining bodies. During World War 2, the island was fortified and guns were installed as part of the defences for Cape Town.<br /><br /><img src="images/Scenic_bus_tour_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" />   <br />Scenic bus tour of Robben Island<br /><br /><img src="images/Robben_Island_shipwreck_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" />   <br />Shipwreck on Robben Island with views of Cape Town<br /><br />All 285 passengers embarked the waiting tour busses to partake in a 45 min scenic tour around the island, each with its own tour guide offering an informative commentary. The busses then pulled up outside the maximum-security prison and we were taken inside on a journey of desperate struggle, of harsh labour and terrible living conditions. (The large group of 300 tourists were again split up into smaller groups). Our guide, Muthe, an ex-political prisoner, described many horrific scenes that he encountered first hand and still remembers vividly today. I could sense an intense anger in him over South Africa’s past, how things used to be, how black people in our country were treated only because of their colour. I wondered if Muthe felt there had been in a change in our country over the last 19 years (since the final release of all the political prisoners in 1991) or since South Africa became a democracy (1994), or did he still hold anger and blame towards South Africa’s apartheid era? Muthe and the other ex-political prisoners, are a product of decades of violent conflict, one that will probably take many years still to change at core level.<br /><br /><img src="images/Robben_Island_Maximum-security_prison_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" />   <br />Robben Island maximum security prison<br /><br />Robben Island became a museum in 1997 and a World Heritage Site 1999. Robben Island signifies the “Triumph of Freedom” and although one tends to come away from the 3hr30min tour with a dreadful feeling of desperate struggle having being adversely affected by the horrific stories of our ex-political prisoner tour guide, it tries to reveal the positive change. Sikhululekile, the apt name chosen for the ferry, means, “We are Free” and commemorates the release of all political prisoners. Large blue writing on the sides of the busses called out “Driven by Freedom”. A quote by Ahmed Kathrada, a Robben Island political prisoner (1964 – 1982) is displayed on the island and at the Robben Island Gateway Museum; “We want Robben Island to reflect the triumph of freedom and human dignity over oppression and humiliation” <br /><br /><img src="images/Freedom_490k.JPG" width="500" height="334" border="0" alt="" />   <br />The release of political prisoners in 1991<br /><br /><img src="images/Maximum_security_prison_A_section_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" />   <br />Robben Island maximum security prison A section<br /><br />This year 11 February 2010, South Africa celebrates the 20th anniversary of our much-respected former president, Nelson Mandela’s release from more than 27 years of imprisonment. Nelson Mandela was released on 11 February 1990 from the low-security Victor Verster prison, now known as the Drakenstein Correctional Centre, in the Dwars River valley near Paarl, Western Cape. Mandela had been relocated from Robben Island to the maximum-security Pollsmoor Prison in Cape Town&#039;s southern suburbs in 1984, and a few years later he was moved to a private house within the prison walls of Victor Verster. <br />The tour is a fascinating journey, one I would recommend to all South Africans, let alone all international tourists. It’s imperative for us to be aware of, and understand, our past and move forward together as a nation. <br /><br /><img src="images/Robben_Island_Gateway_museum_488k.JPG" width="500" height="333" border="0" alt="" />   <br />Robben Island Gateway Museum and clocktower<br /><br />The Robben Island tour is a weather dependant activity and should Robben Island need to cancel the trip due to high winds, rough seas or rain, you will either be refunded for your ticket or placed on a tour the following day.<br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed</a> , your Southerm Africa travel specialists!<br />]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100216-101058</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 09:10:58 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>Authentic African Walking Safaris </title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100106-104827</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Like excited little children we followed Robin, our intrepid field guide, into the African bush, our senses peaked noticing every sound, every smell, feeling the warmth of the morning sun on our skin and listening intently to Robin as he interpreted the signs of nature. Fresh tracks and signs in the sand were translated into a story of a leopard following closely in the footsteps of a duiker, a small antelope species. We followed the tracks and the story evolved into a panicked chase and skillful kill of the antelope, the leopard then retreated to the nearest treetop with her kill to eat in peace.  We must have arrived not long after this spectacular event as the leopard was still there, quietly looking down on us.<br />  <br /><img src="images/Zambia_walking_safaris..jpg" width="512" height="340" border="0" alt="" />   <br />Private Walking Safaris South Luangwa National Park<br /><br />Robin Pope grew up in Zambia and has been guiding private walking safaris through the South Luangwa National Park and surrounds for the last 24years. His knowledge of the African wildlife is unsurpassed and he is known and revered by many as the best wildlife guide in Africa.  The unspoilt South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is home to one of the greatest collections of wildlife in the world - including leopard, lion, elephant, giraffe, buffalo, hippo and more than 400 species of birds.<br /><br /><img src="images/Zambia_game_drives.jpg" width="512" height="340" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Game Drives in South Luangwa National Park<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.robinpopesafaris.net/" target="_blank" >Robin Pope Safaris </a>  not only offers Private Walking Safaris, Photographic Safaris, Birding Safaris and unique special interest safaris such as the Kasanka Bat Safari and the Shoebill Safari, but they also have 3 intimate camps offering a true wilderness luxury experience, situated on the banks of the Luangwa River in South Luangwa National Park. With this combination of top class wildlife guides, impeccable hospitality and delectable cuisine, going on safari with Robin Pope Safaris makes for an unforgettable experience not to be missed! The emphasis is on guests’ comfort, relaxation and enjoyment of an authentic African experience in the Classic tradition.<br /><br /><img src="images/Zambia_sundowners_in_the_Mupamadzi_river.jpg" width="512" height="344" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Sundowners on Mupamadzi River, South Luangwa National Park<br /><br />Their  <a href="http://www.robinpopecamps.com/en/index.php" target="_blank" >three luxury camps</a> , Nkwali, Nsefu and Tena Tena, win regular praise in the press with Tena Tena recently being described by The Times of London as &quot;altogether beyond superlatives… one of the best safari camps in the whole of Africa&quot;. Robin Pope Safaris and their camps are members of  <a href="http://www.classicsafaricamps.com/" target="_blank" >Classic Safari Camps of Africa</a> . Classic Safari Camps of Africa is an association of independent, privately owned camps and lodges in some of the most beautiful wildlife and wilderness areas in East and Southern Africa. Each of these unique establishments offers genuine hospitality and an intimate knowledge of Africa’s natural environment, and is dedicated to conservation and the involvement of local communities sharing and conserving the spirit of Africa.<br /><br /><img src="images/Zambia_Tena_Tena_camp.jpg" width="512" height="340" border="0" alt="" /> <br />Tena Tena Camp, South Luangwa National Park<br /><br />A wonderful travel idea would be to combine private walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park with a canoeing safari in Lower Zambezi National Park, or with cosmopolitan Cape Town in South Africa, known as one of the best cities in the world!<br /><br />These and more exciting travel ideas brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Tours and Travel </a>, your southern Africa travel specialists!  ]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry100106-104827</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Wed, 06 Jan 2010 09:48:27 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>Savouring the Robertson Wine Valley</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry091102-155937</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Proudly part of Route 62, which is widely known as the longest wine route in the world, the  <a href="http://www.robertsonwinevalley.com/" target="_blank" >Robertson Wine Valley </a>  is blessed with incredible scenic splendor. Surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal clear streams, indigenous trees and plants and donned with a Mediterranean climate, the valley is perfect for wine making.<br />   <br /><img src="images/vineyards_of_hex_river.jpg" width="512" height="385" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />The Robertson Wine Valley represents more than 50 wineries in the &#039;Big Five&#039; towns namely Ashton, Bonnievale, Montagu, Mc Gregor and Robertson, among them big cellars (Van Loveren and Graham Beck) and small family owned estates. They all offer free wine tasting and can provide you with informative details on how their wines are made.<br /><br />The Robertson Wine Valley has blossomed with the growing international media attention over the past couple of years and offers superb quality of life. Exceptional wines, gourmet cuisine, an array of fun outdoor activities and a fantastic selection of accommodation ranging from basic self-catering to 5 star luxury. <br /><br />Here are a few wonderful things to do during your stay in the Robertson Wine Valley:<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.viljoensdrift.co.za/" target="_blank" >Viljoensdrift Wines, River Cruises and picnics</a> <br />Everyday except some Sundays, departs at 12h00<br />Cruise is approx 1 hr long.<br />R40 per adult, R15 per child under 16 yrs<br />Bookings essential<br />Viljoensdrift has beautiful well-kept green lawns that are great on which to enjoy a picnic lunch. The Viljoensdrift Deli has a very large and tasty selection of breads, cheeses, olives, sundried tomatoes, humus and other delicatessens.  Your picnic should of course be accompanied by the excellent Viljoensdrift wines.<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.raftingroute62.co.za/" target="_blank" >Rafting Route62 </a>  <br />A fun day outing on the Breede River paddling downstream enjoying one or two small rapids and a diverse birdlife. It includes a picnic lunch on the banks of the river.<br />Departs every day min 2 pax, you will raft 12km of Breede River<br />R350 per adult, R250 under 13years<br />Including rafts, equipment, picnic lunch and in-trip transport<br /><br /><img src="images/rafting_route_62.jpg" width="399" height="299" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.proteafarm.co.za/Services/TractorTrips/Index.asp" target="_blank" >Montagu Tractor trips</a> <br />Departs every wed and sat 10h00 and 14h00<br />R70 per adult, R35 per child under 18 years<br />A fun adventurous trip for the whole family is this tractor-trailer ride to the top of the Landeberg Mountain to an altitude of 1500m. The views are spectacular of the valleys below, of the rugged mountains and the indigenous fynbos vegetation that is endemic to the Western Cape. <br /><br /><img src="images/Montagu_tractor_ride.jpg" width="512" height="341" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.nerinaguestfarm.com/kolgans.htm" target="_blank" >Kolgans River Cruises</a> <br />A relaxing and fun cruise on the Breede River accompanied by superb Afrikaans folks who will prepare authentic tasty Afrikaans cuisine for you.<br />Daily for breakfast, lunch and early evening booze cruise<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.soekershof.com/" target="_blank" >Soekershof</a> <br />Soekershof is an interactive and whimsical exploration of mazes and gardens in a 10-hectare estate. It offers a place of peace and serenity in one of the world&#039;s largest and most unusual mazes and gardens dedicated solely to the preservation, culture and display of cacti and other succulent plants. A guided walkabout portrays the spiritual diversity of South Africa in mazes, a cactus labyrinth and philosophers garden. <br />Tours depart 11h00<br />Enjoy the Visitors Centre, which offers creative local arts and crafts<br />R60 per adult<br />R40 under 12 yrs<br /><br /><img src="images/Soekershof.jpg" width="512" height="404" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />And then, of course, don’t forget the wine tasting! Since there are so many great wine estates to visit and you so often have little time to get to see all of them and taste their wines, still remembering after the 5th glass whose wines in fact you are tasting, I have offered some of my favourites to give you a place to start. They are Viljoensdrift Wine Cellar, Van Louveren, Arabella Estate, Fraai Uitsig, Excelsior, Graham Beck wines and Rooikloof Winery. The best idea actually is to go to the Robertson Tourism Office and collect a detailed map of the Robertson Wine Valley, which not only shows where each and every wine estate is but also many activities and attractions, accommodation establishments, restaurants and coffee shops and more. It’s a wonderfully detailed map. <br />Tours with a dedicated driver can be arranged should you not want to drink and drive. To add a romantic touch, a horse and carriage can also be arranged.<br /><br />I think then that you will agree that Robertson Wine Valley is a wonderful add-on to your South Africa travel itinerary. I would recommend at least 2 nights here to soak up some of this superb quality of life.<br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Tours and Travel</a> .<br />Your southern Africa travel specialists!<br />Designing and coordinating personalised,  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Vacation_Packages_Southern_Africa.php" target="_blank" >tailor-made holiday packages</a>  throughout southern Africa.<br /><br /><br />]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry091102-155937</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:59:37 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>African Horseback Safaris</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry091007-075843</link>
			<description><![CDATA[If, like me, you are an avid horse rider, the phrase “African horseback safaris” probably awakens in you a deep-seated exhilaration driving you to make whatever plans necessary to make this dream come true. A horseback safari on a game rich private concession in the depths of the watery Okavango Delta in Botswana is a unique experience.   <br /><br /><img src="images/delta_dash_550k.JPG" width="500" height="375" border="0" alt="" /> <br />African horseback safaris - Delta Dash! <br /><br />Imagine cantering along through a shallow flood plain next to a herd of giraffe, you watch in amazement their slow motion cantering gait and wonder to yourself, how else would you experience something of this magnitude in this remote wilderness! The close encounters with wildlife you experience from the saddle allow you to feel part of the natural wilderness.<br /> <br /><img src="images/galloping_with_giraffe_487k.JPG" width="500" height="332" border="0" alt="" />  <br />African horseback safaris - Galloping with giraffe<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.africanhorseback.com/" target="_blank" >African Horseback Safaris</a>  is an award winning horseback safari operator based at Macatoo Camp on the western side of the Okavango Delta. The camp features 7 large, classic African safari style tents, each with twin beds and their own en-suite shower and loo. Centrally there is a large mess tent with sofas, books and games, a terrace from where you enjoy the spectacular sunsets and tucked away, a private pool. Meals are cooked on the open fire and are delightfully tasty. It is here that horse-mad people from all over the world meet to share this magnificent wildlife experience. <br /><br /><img src="images/eles_through_ears_550k.JPG" width="500" height="375" border="0" alt="" /> <br />African horseback safaris - Listening to the African bush <br /><br />To be able to join a horseback safari in a Big 5 wilderness area (lion, rhino, elephant, leopard and buffalo territory), you have to be pretty proficient on horseback. You will need to feel confident about keeping up with the group, capable of riding at all paces; rising to the trot and controlling your horse at the canter.  You may be required to gallop out of trouble, so beginners will not be allowed to ride. However you are still welcome at the camp if you are not a proficient horse rider. Other game activities are offered to the partners of those horse-mad people.<br /><br /><img src="images/Buffalo-ride-16_490k.JPG" width="500" height="334" border="0" alt="" />  <br />African horseback safaris - Buffalo ride<br /><br />Going on safari on horseback means that you will be riding between 4 and 6 hours a day into the wilderness viewing various game species from the back of your horse. A maximum of 7 guests will join a safari. The horses are well trained, sure-footed and fit and you will be matched up with a horse of good size and temperament for you. <br /><br />Qualified experienced field guides will lead you on horseback through the delta interpreting the intricate language of the African bush, reading tracks and signs left by wildlife and following them for that classic close up sighting. The guides have many years experience of living in the bush and when something goes bump in the night, its always nice to know they are nearby to save you.<br /><br />Macatoo Camp is a remote wilderness camp within the Okavango Delta and getting there can only be done by light aircraft flight from Maun or Kasane. Combining this safari camp with a few nights at the mighty Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe allows for a wonderfully varied itinerary.<br /><br />Images copyright to  <a href="http://www.africanhorseback.com/" target="_blank" >African Horseback Safaris</a> <br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Tours and Travel</a> <br /><br />Related article:   <a href="http://africatamed.co.za/blog/comments.php?y=09&amp;m=01&amp;entry=entry090123-141020" target="_blank" >On Safari in Botswana</a> ]]></description>
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			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry091007-075843</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2009 05:58:43 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>Personalized Safaris in Southern Africa</title>
			<link>http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry090901-085705</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Imagine you are on a guided 4x4 safari deep in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, you’re surrounded by pristine indigenous bush, the air is still, warm and dry. You’re captivated by the melodious call of the Emerald Spotted Dove just as your game ranger slowly pulls the vehicle up in sight of a leopard kill hanging in the large Jackleberry Tree above you. The leopard’s emerald eyes watch you intensely, your heart races and a cold sweat covers your body as you realize you are the intruder in her territory. Your game ranger slowly maneuvers the vehicle away leaving her in peace to live her endangered existence.   <br />A little further down the track a massive breeding herd of elephants bumble across in front of you, with the vehicle engine off all you hear is breaking branches, the soft grumble of the adult elephants communicating with one another, young calves playing about joyously trumpeting with excitement. All the while your experienced ranger is interpreting to you what is happening around you, the intricate details of the African wildlife.<br />  <br /><img src="images/Londolozi_leopard.jpg" width="512" height="340" border="0" alt="" />  <br /><br />Africa has something special to offer even the most discerning traveler. It welcomes you with open arms, climbs into your heart and never lets go. It will have you returning to her again and again each time leaving you with unforgettable memories. <br /><br />Personalized safaris in southern Africa are incredible rewarding experiences. Contacting a local tour operator and asking them to put together an African safari to suit you I believe is the best way to travel. Have a safari designed according to your budget, the number of days or nights that you have and including activities on the itinerary that suit your style of holiday, whether it be active and adventurous or passive and pampered, whether it be staying in luxurious 5 star lodges or comfortable tented bushcamps. The more detail that you can supply to the specialized tour operator the more personalized your safari becomes.<br /> <br /><img src="images/botswana_-_safari_in_deep_water.jpg" width="512" height="341" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />Budget is a very important aspect of a personalized safari as there is a huge range of different experiences available to you at differing price ranges. Lets take for example a one night stay at one of my most favourite 5 star game lodges in the world renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, part of the greater Kruger National Park. It offers ultimate luxury, consummate hospitality, delectable cuisine and some of the best game viewing experiences in Africa. Londolozi Private Game Reserve’s Tree Camp goes for R8950 per person per night all-inclusive (valid 2010). This includes all meals, teas/ coffees, local house wines, beers, soft drinks, twice daily game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles, guided bush walks and laundry.<br />Then take another example of a game lodge situated in northern Sabi Sand Game Reserve called Arathusa Safari Lodge, which offers great value for money, wonderful homely service, tasty food and excellent game viewing. This goes at R2400 per person per night all-inclusive (including all meals, teas/coffees, twice daily game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles and guided bush walks). A considerable difference in price wouldn’t you say?<br /><br /><img src="images/botswana_-_safari_with_elies.jpg" width="512" height="341" border="0" alt="" /> <br /><br />Most of us avid travelers may only find the time and money to travel once a year, maybe only once every three years. So make the next one a memorable one! Make it a personalized safari to southern Africa.<br /><br />Brought to you by  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/index.php" target="_blank" >Africa Tamed Tours and Travel</a> <br /><br />Check out our  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Vacation_Packages_Southern_Africa.php" target="_blank" >all-inclusive vacation packages</a>  or allow us to design and coordinate a  <a href="http://www.africatamed.co.za/Contact_Details.php#ENQUIRY" target="_blank" >personalized tailor made safari </a>  just for you.<br />]]></description>
			<category></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">http://africatamed.co.za/blog/index.php?entry=entry090901-085705</guid>
			<author>Claire Dinnie</author>
			<pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2009 06:57:05 GMT</pubDate>
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